Looking for the best wings in Ocean City NJ? While OCNJ is not Buffalo, several spots serve up excellent chicken wings that will satisfy your craving. Here is where to find the best wings at the shore.
Top Wing Spots
OC Surf Cafe (Asbury Avenue)
This local favorite has built a reputation for excellent wings. Their selection of sauces ranges from mild to insanely hot, and the wings are cooked properly—crispy skin, tender meat, generous portions. The casual vibe and solid beer prices at this address make it a go-to for wing fans (note: as a dry town, OCNJ restaurants don’t serve alcohol—drive to Somers Point for wings and beer).
Must try: Ask for the house specialty sauce
Brown’s Restaurant (10th Street)
This family-friendly spot serves reliable pub-style wings alongside their American menu. Nothing revolutionary, but consistently good. Multiple sauce options and generous portions.
Best for: Families, casual wing cravings
Wingcraft (Somers Point)
Just across the bay, Somers Point delivers what OCNJ cannot—wings with beer. Several spots in Somers Point specialize in wings, and since they have full bars, you get the classic wings-and-beer experience. Worth the 5-minute drive.
Must try: Their specialty flavors
Bar and Grill Options in Somers Point
Gregory’s, Crab Trap, and The Anchorage all serve wings with full bar service. Quality varies, but the ability to pair wings with an ice-cold beer makes the short drive worthwhile.
Wing Styles Available
Classic Buffalo
Traditional hot wings tossed in butter and hot sauce. The standard against which all wings are measured.
Dry Rub
Seasoned without sauce for those who prefer less mess. Lemon pepper, Cajun, and various spice blends.
BBQ
Sweet and tangy barbecue sauce variations. Popular with those who find buffalo too spicy.
Unique Sauces
Local spots offer creative flavors—garlic parmesan, Asian-inspired glazes, honey hot combinations. Ask what is special at each location.
Wings on the Boardwalk
Some boardwalk food stands and restaurants offer wings, though quality varies significantly. These tend to be fast-food style rather than restaurant quality. If you are craving wings on the boardwalk, manage expectations—they are fine for a quick snack but not destination-worthy.
Wing Night Specials
Several restaurants offer wing specials on certain nights. Call ahead or check social media for current deals. Specials typically include:
- Discounted wing prices
- All-you-can-eat options (rare but exists)
- Half-price appetizers including wings
Ordering Wings for Delivery/Takeout
Most wing spots offer takeout, and some deliver through apps. Tips for takeout wings:
- Get sauce on the side to maintain crispiness
- Open the container slightly during transport to vent steam
- Eat promptly—wings do not improve sitting in a box
- Order extra napkins and wet wipes
Game Day Wings
Watching the game at your rental? Several spots will prepare large wing orders for pickup:
- Call ahead (way ahead for big games)
- Order by the pound or 50-piece increments
- Get variety packs with multiple flavors
- Don’t forget celery, carrots, and blue cheese
The Beer Question
Wings and beer go together like beaches and sunshine. Unfortunately, Ocean City is a dry town—no alcohol anywhere. Your options:
- Somers Point: Full bars 5-10 minutes away
- Takeout to rental: Get wings in OCNJ, drink at your rental (beer purchased in Somers Point)
- Accept the situation: Wings pair fine with soda and root beer
Wing Tips
- Flats vs. drums: Ask if you can request all flats (more meat, easier to eat)
- Extra crispy: Many spots will cook wings longer upon request
- Sauce on side: Toss yourself for perfect coverage
- Blue cheese not ranch: The traditional way (but ranch is fine too)
- Wet wipes essential: Great wings require cleanup
What Makes Great Wings
Look for these qualities:
- Crispy skin: Properly fried or baked wings should snap
- Tender meat: Juicy inside, not dried out
- Quality sauce: Flavor that complements without overwhelming
- Proper size: Full-sized wings, not tiny pieces
- Fresh: Cooked to order, not sitting under heat lamps
Price Expectations
- 6-piece appetizer: $10-14
- 12-piece order: $15-20
- Large orders (50+): $50-80
Shore prices tend to run slightly higher than inland—you are paying for the location.
Make It a Wing Night
After a long beach day, sometimes you just want wings. Get them takeout, bring them back to your rental, and enjoy them on the deck as the sun sets. No fancy dinner required—just crispy wings, good company, and that satisfied feeling that comes from simple pleasures done right.
Ocean City might be a dry town, but the wings are worth it. Pick your spot, choose your sauce, and dig in.